First Day of School

I have always loved the first day of school. Even when I was a student, I looked forward to going back, seeing old friends, and learning new things. I still love the first day of school, and in some ways it is now doubled for me. Last week we had teacher's inservice, and it is always so much fun to go back to work and see old friends and catch up. Then today classes started, and I enjoyed seeing former students and meeting new ones.

Highlights of the day include:

1) Named AP Teacher of the Year--I found out that my AP Art History students absolutely CRUSHED the exam at the end of last year. I had a 95% passing rate (the next closest teacher was at 78%), and was also mentioned in two other categories (third in greatest increase of students enrolled in the course, and second in greatest increase of students taking the test). Even more, the students did not "just pass" (the final score ranges from 1 to 5, with 3 being a score that is typically accepted by universities as "passing"); I had never had a student score a 5 prior to last year, and I learned that at least four did so, and everyone else I talked to earned at least a 4. That is absolutely amazing! And I'd love to be cocky and say that I'm some great teacher, but really it just shows the quality of students I was able to work with last year.

2) A student walked out of my class.

First he was tardy. Then he refused to work. Then he started texting and when I attempted to confiscate his phone, he refused. When I informed him that an administer would be coming to take it from him--and then made the call to the office--he bolted. He was later found and dealt with. I'm curious to see if he'll be back in class tomorrow. I could joke and say, "I'm sure great times are ahead with this kid!", but instead I've been praying for a way to interact with him and see what's going on in his life.

3) These two little buggers.

My sons were far and away the biggest highlight of my day. They had on their LeBron t-shirts, their new shorts and shoes, and they were ready to go.

Brennan started 3rd grade today. It amazes me how big he's getting.

Aydan is now in 6th grade (his last year before jr. high/middle school!) and wanted to ride his bike up to school by himself, as usual. He did consent, however, to me following him and taking a picture in front of his school.

The highlight on top of this highlight was the moment when Aydan turned to go into school and Brennan called his name, ran after him and gave him a hug. It was so good to see, because they've been getting on each other's last nerves as the summer ended, and it made me realize how crazy I am about them and how I couldn't be more proud.

I did not remember to take a picture of me in my first day outfit, but I am not ashamed to tell you, dear readers, that I was indeed looking pretty fly.